“We Deserve to Exist”: Ukraine’s Top Olympian Fights for More Than Just Medals
In February 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin’s decision to invade Ukraine marked Europe’s most significant land invasion since World War II. Nearly two and a half years later, the war continues with Ukrainians fiercely defending their homeland and striving to expel Russian forces.
Amid this turmoil, Ukrainian fencer Olga Kharlan’s world was upended following her disappointing performance at the Tokyo 2021 Olympics. Reflecting on her experience, the 33-year-old athlete told CNN Sport’s Amanda Davies, “When I didn’t succeed in Tokyo, I thought it was the worst time in my life. But then, when the war started, I realized nothing compares to what’s happening to our country.”
Kharlan continues, “Whenever you encounter any Ukrainian abroad or return home, the conversation inevitably turns to February 24 and how you spent the first day of the war. This is our current reality. We are trying to live with it and build a future. It’s our way of affirming that we deserve to live, we deserve to exist. No one can take our home from us. We will fight until the end, and we hope the world will support us.”
A Triumph in Paris
Kharlan’s fifth Olympic Games in Paris has been a testament to her resilience. Just days after the opening ceremony, she secured a dramatic bronze medal in the individual competition, rallying from a six-point deficit to defeat South Korea’s Choi Se-bin and deliver Ukraine’s first medal at the 2024 Games.
Her success didn’t stop there. Kharlan led Ukraine to a remarkable comeback victory against South Korea, earning the country’s first gold medal in Paris. This win marked Ukraine’s second gold in the event, following their 2008 victory, and cemented Kharlan’s status as Ukraine’s most successful Olympian with a total of six medals.
Following this historic triumph, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky praised the team, stating on his X (formerly Twitter) account, “I thank them for the result, for the spirit, for showing that Ukrainians win! Ukraine knows how to inspire both at the Olympic Games and in times like these!”
Kharlan was deeply moved by this recognition, saying, “This is history for my country and the world. It shows that Ukraine can achieve greatness and that we are capable of fighting and winning. This moment of joy is felt across the country despite the daily challenges of air raids and bombings.”
A Family Celebration
Kharlan’s moment of glory was also shared with her family, who traveled from the war-torn city of Mykolaiv to Paris. Her mother Iryna, 61, sister Tetiana, 40, and young nephew Tymophii made the journey, while her father Hennadiy remained at home. Kharlan fondly recalled, “When my sister comes, I win. I’ve won two world championships with her, so I wanted her to be here in Paris.”
She expressed her gratitude for her family’s support, especially as she made her late grandparents proud, dedicating her victories to them. “I know that my grandparents would be very proud if they were here. I carry them in my heart and mind always.”
Standing Firm
Kharlan’s path to Paris wasn’t without obstacles. During the World Championships in Italy last year, she faced controversy when she refused to shake hands with her Russian opponent, Anna Smirnova, in protest against Russia’s invasion. Although initially disqualified, Kharlan was later reinstated and secured her place in the Paris Olympics, a decision the International Olympic Committee described as aligning with the “Olympic Spirit.”
Reflecting on her stance, Kharlan said, “I realized the risk, but I wouldn’t change anything. Despite the challenges, it was important to stand up for justice and show that Ukraine’s fight is more than just about sports.”
Honoring the Fallen
Ukraine is competing with its smallest ever Olympic team of 140 athletes. Throughout the Games, the athletes are mindful of those who couldn’t make it due to the ongoing conflict. According to Ukraine’s Sports Ministry, about 3,000 athletes have served in the military, with 479 having been killed or affected in civilian life, and over 500 sports facilities, including 15 Olympic training bases, have been destroyed.
Kharlan honors the memory of fallen soldiers and fencers, saying, “Everything we achieve is for them. We fight for those who can no longer fight, and they will always be remembered.”
In Paris, Kharlan’s achievements shine as a beacon of hope and resilience, embodying the spirit of a nation determined to overcome adversity and assert its place on the global stage.
